I kid.
I think what's happening is that for the first time in his NHL career he doesn't have to worry about making his linemates better, his linemates are making him better. By playing with Mitch Marner he's gone from set up man to finisher.
What's better is he's not the best player on his team for the first time since he was 4 years old so he doesn't have to carry the load. Matthews is an absolute beast so far this season. JT and him are going to be in a year long friendly game of one-upmanship. Matthews is going up against the opponents #1 lines and destroying them. JT is a #1C and is getting matchups against other teams' #2 lines so he's getting great matchups. Add in a power play that has been dominant so far and JT is really thriving. If they stay healthy they could both top 50G for the season.
For the first time in a decade Crosby/Malkin have some competition for the best 1-2 Centermen combo in the league.